Previous experimental research regarding pain and itch thresholds of patients
with atopic eczema (AE) and healthy controls has shown ambiguous results. In
particular a cyclic course in women with AE and the influence of the intake of
oral contraceptives has yet scarcely been examined. In this study I explored
detection, pain and itch thresholds during the menstrual cycle as well as the
correlation between named thresholds and the use of combined oral
contraceptives (COC). In addition health related quality of life (HRQoL) was
examined as a function to the menstrual cycle and hormonal intake. Methods: 35
women with and 37 women without atopic eczema took part in the study. In non-
pill-users measurements took place on day 1, 14 and 22, in women with COC they
were performed on day 14, 22 and the last day of the pill-free interval.
Perception and pain thresholds were detected by intracutaneous electrical
stimulation, itch thresholds by titrated histamine prick test. HRQoL was
assessed by several questionnaires (Itch questionnaire, SF-36, SCL-90-R,
DLQI). Results: Detection and pain thresholds were lower in patients with AE
in comparison to the healthy volunteers. Moreover HRQoL was measurably
diminished in patients in comparison to healthy controls. No significant
variations in perception, pain and itch thresholds or HRQoL could be found
over the course of the menstrual cycle in women without COC. Women with atopic
dermatitis who used COC showed slightly higher perception, pain and itch
thresholds than women without COC. Conclusions: Pain and itch sensitivity were
higher in women with atopic dermatitis in comparison to healthy volunteers,
HRQoL was diminished. The menstrual cycle and intake of COC did not have a
clear impact on all thresholds or HRQoL. Therefore, no therapeutic
consequences can be drawn from this study. In order to yield clearer
information regarding the hormonal influence on the disease process further
studies have to be performed.